As we spring forward to daylight savings time, many people may be looking forward to the longer, brighter days ahead. However, what most people don't realize is that this time change can have a significant impact on workplace collaboration as well as individual sleep patterns, which in turn can have a direct impact on employee work performance and business agility.
According to a study by the National Sleep Foundation, losing just one hour of sleep can lead to a decrease in cognitive performance, including memory, attention, and decision-making abilities. In fact, the study found that people who sleep less than six hours per night are twice as likely to make mistakes at work and have increased workplace accidents than those who get seven to nine hours of sleep.
But the effects of sleep loss go beyond just individual performance. In the workplace setting, sleep deprivation can lead to productivity loss, increases in employee absences, and even higher healthcare costs. A study conducted by the National Institute of Health found that sleep-deprived employees cost U.S. companies $63.2 billion in lost productivity each year.
So, how can businesses combat the negative effects of daylight savings time and sleep loss? Here are some tips:
But it's not just about preventing the negative effects of sleep loss. Businesses can also leverage the benefits of good sleep to improve their agility and performance; listed below are a few examples:
Daylight savings time (DST) can cause significant challenges for businesses working with international teams. For instance, if a team in California is working with a team in Hyderabad, India, they may experience significant time differences based on the time of year due to DST. This can lead to missed deadlines, scheduling conflicts, and reduced productivity. The practice of DST is not universal, and not all countries or even U.S. states implement it. This can make it difficult for teams to coordinate with each other, particularly if one team is based in a country that does not observe DST while the other does. For example, a team in Arizona will not be impacted by DST, while a team in California will. However, with careful planning and the use of technology, businesses can overcome these challenges and work collaboratively with international teams, no matter where they are located.
Daylight savings time can negatively impact the ability of teams to collaborate, and the resulting loss of sleep due to DST can have a significant impact on work performance and business agility. But, by taking proactive steps to promote good sleep habits, utilizing automation and software to assist in scheduling, as well as leveraging the benefits of well-rested employees, businesses can improve their productivity, creativity, and overall performance.
At Nisum, we understand the importance of agility in today's fast-paced business environment. That's why we offer a range of consulting services to help businesses optimize their operations and stay ahead of the curve. From digital transformation to data analytics, our team of experts has the knowledge and experience to help businesses navigate the challenges of today's ever-changing landscape. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your business thrive.